Meet Rika Manabe

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Rika Manabe. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Rika below.

Rika, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?

I always have a photography project in progress, focusing on storytelling that reflects subjects close to my heart or simply those that interest me. I strive to tell honest and compelling stories by exploring the messages I want to share with my audience. I imagine what they might feel or learn and how they connect with me through my images. That’s how I keep my creativity alive.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I am an editorial and commercial photographer with an academic background in photojournalism. My shooting style is very much documentary, focusing on capturing candid moments—whether in portrait, event, destination, or food photography—to tell the story my client wants to share.

I love shooting travel pieces featuring destinations, people, and food. After all, that’s how I decided to become a photographer—by capturing moments while traveling. I am also a passionate street photographer. I always carried a camera with me even before smartphones were available, ready to shoot anytime, anywhere.

I am increasingly participating in shows and exhibits around the world and am always looking for new opportunities. I also teach photography workshops covering everything from food and portrait photography to street photography. You can find more details on my website, where my prints are also available for sale.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

I’d say the first essential skill is repetition. Since I started photography over 20 years ago, I have almost always had a camera with me. I photograph every day, and through that, I’ve learned a great deal about the technical aspects—not just how to use gear, but also how to prepare and execute in order to capture the image I want in any environment. I’ve shot about 200 weddings, and that experience was invaluable in building my confidence, both in acquiring technical skills and in handling high-pressure situations.

The second skill is openness with people. Connecting with your subject or client and making them feel comfortable is crucial if you want to capture great shots. I’m still learning because every client is different. It’s not just about being friendly or polite but about genuinely engaging—asking questions and listening to who they are and what they want to showcase. As an artist, it can sometimes be challenging to adapt my vision, especially when my style or perspective differs from my client’s. However, I see this as an opportunity to learn and grow, as long as I remain open-minded to new ideas.
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The last skill is reminding myself to be kind to myself. As an artist and business owner, I can be my own worst critic. I have to remember that I do this because it makes me happiest—not just to please others. This sentiment is often repeated, yet I know many of us forget it on a daily basis. Prioritizing my mental health is just as important as taking care of my physical health.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

I am always looking for galleries or museums to host my work, as well as artists and brands to feature and submit to my editorial clients. I also welcome collaborations with writers on projects or assignments. Additionally, I am available to work with non-profit organizations on storytelling initiatives.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.rikamanabe.com
• Instagram: @rikafoto
• Linkedin: Rika Manabe Photography